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Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail

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Even before the Declaration of Independence, a young George Washington was developing plans to improve opportunities for commerce between the Atlantic Seaboard and "the Western Country" by way of the Potomac River. The idea echoed the practices of native populations--the word "Potomac" is often said to derive from an Algonkian phrase meaning "place where things are brought," or "trading place."

Today, the designation of a Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail corridor, enacted and signed in 1983 as an amendment to the National Trails System Act, is being used by communities in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia and Pennsylvania to develop and make connections among trails, historic sites and a range of recreational and educational opportunities. Three trails are currently recognized as "official" segments of the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail: the 184.5-mile C & O Canal Towpath, managed by Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park; the 17-mile Mount Vernon Trail, managed by George Washington Memorial Parkway; and the 75-mile Laurel Highlands Trail, managed by Laurel Ridge State Park, Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.



Contact Information

Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail
Post Office Box B
Harpers Ferry, WV 25425
304-535-4014 - Administration
301-739-4200 - Visitor Information
703-289-2500 - Visitor Information
412-455-3744 - Visitor Information


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Activities

Here are some of the activities that are offered at Mount Rainier National Park.
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  • Biking
  • Boating
  • Camping
  • Climbing
  • Educational Programs
  • Fishing
  • Hiking
  • Horseback Riding
  • Swimming
  • Wildlife Viewing
  • Snow Skiing
  • Backpacking
  • Bird Watching
  • Nature Walks
  • Stargazing
  • Kayaking
  • Whitewater Rafting
  • Cross Country Skiing

Recommended Activities


 
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Find Hiking and Biking Trails
If you like to go hiking or biking, then don't forget to get a map and guidebook. Trails.com offers a great service that allows unlimited downloads of trail guides for a small monthly fee. They even have a 14 day free trial. Whether you are looking for day hikes, backpacking trails, mountain bike routes or just short nature stroll, they cover it all. So let Trails.com help plan your next outing.
RV Information
Are you planning on traveling with your RV? If you are, you should check out the Good Sam Club. The Good Sam Club offers discounts on camping, a free magazine subscription and great tips on traveling with your RV. You can also get a free no-obligation RV Insurance quote . Give them a look and enjoy your trip.
Gear Up For Your Trip
Once you have finished deciding where to go, it will be time to gear up. A great place for adventure travel gear is The National Geographic Store. They have all types of maps and guides to help finalize your vacation plans.